The X28 bus is a key RTA express route connecting Lulu Village (Al Qusais) with First Avenue Mall, running via Al Nahda, Deira City Centre, Satwa, Jumeirah and Mercato. Buses run daily, typically from 05:35 AM, roughly every 5 to 15 minutes. Fares are paid via Nol card and cost between AED 3 and AED 7.5.
Plan Your X28 Bus Trip
- Check Live Timings: Use the RTA S’hail app for real-time bus arrivals.
- Check Nol Balance: Ensure you have at least AED 7.5 on your card before travel.
- View Route Map: See the full stop list and plan your journey on the RTA website.
X28 Bus Schedule & Timetable (Today)
The X28 bus route operates 7 days a week, including public holidays. However, the first and last bus timings vary slightly depending on the day of the week and the direction of travel.
The total journey time for the X28 route is approximately 90 to 100 minutes, but this can change significantly based on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.
Direction 1: Lulu Village to First Avenue Mall
This schedule applies to journeys starting from the Lulu Village bus stop and travelling towards First Avenue Mall.
| Day | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency |
| Monday – Thursday | 05:35 AM | ~ 11:30 PM | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Friday | 05:35 AM | ~ 12:00 AM | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Saturday – Sunday | 05:35 AM | ~ 11:30 PM | 15 – 30 Mins |
Direction 2: First Avenue Mall to Lulu Village
This schedule applies to journeys starting from First Avenue Mall and travelling back towards Lulu Village.
| Day | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency |
| Monday – Wednesday | 06:12 AM | 12:04 AM (Next Day) | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Thursday | 06:12 AM | 01:00 AM (Next Day) | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Friday | 06:02 AM | 12:57 AM (Next Day) | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Saturday | 06:12 AM | 12:04 AM (Next Day) | 15 – 30 Mins |
| Sunday | 06:12 AM | 12:04 AM (Next Day) | 15 – 30 Mins |
Disclaimer: Timings are subject to change by the RTA. Always check the S’hail app for the most accurate x28 bus schedule today.
X28 Bus Fare & Nol Card Payment
Payment for the X28 bus cannot be made in cash. You must use a valid Nol card to pay for your trip.
How to pay for the X28 bus?
To pay, tap your Nol card on the electronic reader when you board the bus. It is crucial to tap out on the same reader when you disembark.
If you forget to tap out, the system may charge you the maximum possible fare for the entire route (AED 7.5), as it assumes you travelled all 3+ zones.
X28 fare based on travel zones
Dubai’s bus fares are calculated based on the number of zones you cross during your trip. The X28 route crosses multiple zones, so your fare will depend on your starting and ending stops.
The minimum required balance on your Nol card to start any journey is AED 7.5.
Here are the standard fares using a Silver Nol Card:
| Zones Crossed | Fare (Silver Nol Card) | Fare (Gold Nol Card) |
| 1 Zone (or < 3km) | AED 3.00 | AED 6.00 |
| 2 Zones | AED 5.00 | AED 10.00 |
| 3+ Zones | AED 7.50 | AED 15.00 |
X28 Bus Route Explained
The X28 is an “Express” (X) route, meaning it makes fewer stops than local routes, allowing for faster travel across the city. It connects the older, northern side of Dubai (Al Qusais) with the modern, southern end (Jumeirah and First Avenue Mall).
Route path from Al Qusais to First Avenue Mall
Starting from Lulu Village in Al Qusais, the bus travels through Muhaisnah and Al Nahda, passing near the Dubai Airport Free Zone.
It then moves into Deira, stopping at City Centre, before crossing Dubai Creek.
The route continues through Al Jafiliya and Satwa, then runs parallel to the coast along Jumeirah Road. This part of the journey passes iconic landmarks like Mercato Shopping Mall and the Burj Al Arab Hotel.
After Mercato Shopping Mall, it continues to its terminus at First Avenue Mall.
Key stops on the X28 route
While the full X28 bus route has over 30 stops, here are some of the most prominent stops and nearby landmarks.
| Key Stop Name | Nearby Landmark / Area |
| Lulu Village | Starting Point (Al Qusais) |
| Dubai Airport Free Zone | DAFZA Metro Station |
| Al Nahda Metro Bus Stop | Al Nahda 1 |
| City Centre Metro Bus Stop | Deira City Centre Mall |
| Al Jafiliya Seaside Metro | Max Metro / Al Jafiliya |
| Satwa, Roundabout | 2nd December Street |
| Mercato Shopping Mall | Jumeirah 1 |
| First Avenue Mall | Terminus |
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Riding the RTA buses is simple, but a few tips can make your journey on the X28 even easier.
- Always check live times. The S’hail app (Android/iOS) provides real-time bus tracking. This is far more accurate than the static x28 bus timetable, especially during peak traffic.
- Keep your card topped up. Ensure your Nol card has the minimum AED 7.5 balance before you board. You cannot add credit on the bus.
- Mind the front seats. The front section of the bus is typically reserved for women and children.
- Signal your stop. Press the red “Stop” buttons located on the poles inside the bus well before your stop to alert the driver.
- Plan for traffic. The X28 travels through high-traffic areas like Deira and Jumeirah Road. Allow extra travel time, especially during evening rush hour (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM).
Pro Tip: Using the RTA S’hail App
Instead of just checking the X28 bus schedule, use the “Plan a Journey” feature in the S’hail app. It will combine the bus schedule with metro timings and walking directions to give you the fastest and most accurate route from your exact location to your destination.
Final Thoughts
The X28 bus route is a vital artery for Dubai commuters. It offers an affordable and scenic way to travel between the residential areas of Al Qusais/Al Nahda and the residential and leisure areas of Satwa, Jumeirah and First Avenue Mall.
By understanding the x28 bus schedule, fare system, and key stops, you can navigate this popular route like a pro. Always remember to use the S’hail app for live updates and ensure your Nol card is ready for travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is the X28 bus fare in Dubai?
The fare is not fixed. It depends on the number of zones you cross. Using a Silver Nol card, a trip costs AED 3 for 1 zone, AED 5 for 2 zones, or AED 7.50 for 3 or more zones.
What is the first and last bus time for the X28 from Lulu Village?
The first bus from Lulu Village is at approximately 05:35 AM. The last bus is around 11:30 PM on weekdays and slightly later on weekends. Timings can change, so check the RTA S’hail app for live data.
Does the X28 bus go to Mall of the Emirates?
No, the X28 bus route does not stop at the Mall of the Emirates. After running through Jumeirah and past Mercato Shopping Mall, it ends at First Avenue Mall.
How long is the X28 bus journey?
The full journey from Lulu Village to First Avenue Mall takes approximately 90 minutes. This time can be longer during peak traffic hours in the morning and evening.
Last updated: October 2026
Reviewed by: Dubaihowto RTA Transport Team
Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers